All You Need to Know About Cagayan De Oro

Being in the South, we can say that the island group of Mindanao has been isolated from Luzon and Visayas for quite a while. It is only now that people from Manila and the rest of the Philippines are traveling to Mindanao to enjoy its cities as tourist destinations. This only shows despite the chaos it used to endure, the southerners were able to recover fast and work towards the development of their home.

This article features the fourth largest metropolitan area in the Philippines that is Cagayan De Oro (CDO) city. Be ready to know about the many things it offers to tourists that make them want to stay there for good. You’ll want to see it for yourself if you haven't and see it again if you already have.

CAGAYAN DE ORO

There's this blog by a Canadian man who has been to all over the country, yet specifically fell in love with CDO that he decided to live there. He said among the things he likes about the city is the close-knit community and how it is the gateway to everything. From the city filled with modern establishments, you just need an hour and a half to get to Iligan City and see one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the world. Camiguin Island is also a short journey away for those who want an escape to the white sand beaches or fond of snorkeling and diving. The blogger also feels safe because the residents look out for him.

GEOGRAPHY AND POPULATION

The 1st class highly urbanized city houses a total of 675,950 people according to the 2015 consensus. This makes it the 10th most populous city in the country. Governance in its capital –  Misamis Oriental – is independent of the province. Cagayan De Oro is part of the growing Metropolitan CDO area, serving as the business hub and regional center of Region X. About 44% of the household population classify themselves as ethnically mixed people, 22.15% are Cebuanos, 4.38% are Boholanos, and 28.0% classify themselves as ethnic groups.

TOURIST DESTINATIONS

Of course, the best way to get to CDO from Manila is by plane. You can buy affordable flights if you book 3 months prior to your target travel date. Take note in planning your itinerary that the weather in the city is unpredictable - it could be too raining around December to January. As for those wanting to see the city in its sunniest days, visit within the months of March to June.

Here are some recommended tourist spots to visit:

Seven Seas Waterpark

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This is the first ever world class waterpark in the country. Tourists and locals alike couldn't get enough of its thrilling rides. Make sure that you pass by Opol to check it out.

Mapawa Nature Park

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Now we go to one of the most breathtaking tourist spots in CDO. Mapawa is a forest in Barangay Cugman where you and your friends can go canyoneering and cliff jumping at the waterfalls. What's more, is you can set up a camp in the forest.

Tinago Falls

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Just want to chill and cool down? Then you'll absolutely love the blue and cold waters of Tinago Falls. This is found in Iligan City that's just about an hour away from CDO. Trek, ride the raft, or just eat good food in the cottages.

Divine Mercy Shrine

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Located in El Salvador City near Cagayan De Oro, this beautiful Catholic pilgrimage site receives visitors who want to reflect mostly during the Holy Week. The spacious chapel stands alongside the 50 ft statue of the Divine Mercy Jesus. You may even climb up to the heart of the statue guided by the workers to pray.

Dahilayan Adventure Park

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How does ziplining and doing a 120-foot drop sound? From CDO, you can go to Bukidnon to try these fun activities in Dahilayan Adventure Park. And when you get tired, the place also has accommodations if you want to stay for a couple of days.

Happy with just reading about it? Gather your squad and start planning your summer trip to Cagayan De Oro city. Or travel alone if you want! As the Canadian blogger said, he feels safe in the city and people look out for him. You just need to plan your trip well to ensure you make the most of your trip and all is set when you arrive. Enjoy your visit to the “City of Golden Friendship!”

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